Menopause & Sage

Menopause is something all women must face. Ten years of change, in addition to the side effects the transition can provide, is a startling concept for many women, some of whom seek alternative treatments. One natural remedy is the ingesting of sage leaves, to fight both physical and psychological ailments.

Symptoms

Menopause begins with hormone fluctuations for most women in their mid-30s to mid-40s, reports MicroNutra.com. The next decade can bring such problems as hot flashes, night sweats, dry skin, migraines, and joint and muscle pain. Among the most troubling side effects, however, are psychological effects---anxiety, mood swings and fatigue. Such effects are signs of menopause-related instability in another of the body's systems: the central nervous system.

Sage

Sage, a potential remedy for menopause's side effects, is a small shrub in the mint family and has a long history of human use, reports the HerbFacts website. Its seeming ability to alleviate any ailment led to sage being hailed as an almost magical shrub. Sage has remained a common natural remedy, reports MicroNutura.com, and is noted for its effect on the central nervous system.

Effects

Estrogen levels are less stable during menopause, and the estrogenic effects of sage can help, according to grandmas-wisdom.com. Issues such as fatigue and anxiety can be at least partially alleviated through continued use of the herb, especially when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Fluctuations in mood, and problems such as anxiety, can also be eased with sage, according to MicroNutura.com.

Other Remedies

The simplest remedy for ailments related to menopause is a healthy, balanced diet and exercise, says MicroNutura.com. Hormone replacement therapy is an option and it treats hot flashes and osteoporosis, but its side effects also include ailments that sage is used to treat, such as migraines. Medicines such as antidepressants and blood pressure medicines have also been used, but these carry with them side effects and lack the natural appeal of sage.

Dosages

Sage works well sipped in cold tea form, especially in the treatment of menopausal symptoms, reports the HerbFacts website. To two teaspoons of fresh or one teaspoon of dried leaves, add a cup of boiled (not boiling) water and steep for 10 minutes. The tea can be gargled or sipped. Sweetening the tea with honey, sugar, or syrup does not affect its medicinal properties, says grandmas-wisdom.com.

Sage can also be ingested in capsule form, says the HerbFacts website, and there are mouthwashes and gargles of sage made specifically to treat any sore or dry throats that may result from menopause. Before starting any alternative treatment, it's wise to consult your doctor.